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Matt Hardy Reacts To Retiring Team 3D At TNA Bound For Glory

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Following their historic and emotional victory over their legendary rivals, Team 3D, at the TNA Bound For Glory pay-per-view, Matt Hardy has shared his thoughts on the match and the shocking post-match retirement ceremony. The Hardys defeated Bully Ray and D-Von Dudley in a brutal Tables Match to retain both the TNA and NXT World Tag Team Championships, bringing an end to their 27-year rivalry.

Speaking in a post-show interview, Matt Hardy discussed his confidence going into the match, but also his genuine shock at what transpired after the bell.

“I knew we were going to go to war with Team 3D, I was confident we would beat Team 3D. We’ve been on an absolute regular grind, we’re doing well for ourselves, especially at our age. We’re both very healthy, very physically fit. Those guys haven’t done this in a while, so I thought we would be able to pull off the win tonight and get that W, establish ourselves as the greater of the two teams. They came out looking for a knockout, no doubt, 3Ds right off the jump, right out of the gate. But what I was shocked about was that when the match ended, they took off their boots. They called it a career, I did not expect that. And they gave us their boots, which was the ultimate sign of respect.”

Hardy also reflected on what has been one of the most successful and decorated weeks of his entire career, in which The Hardy Boyz captured three different sets of tag team championships.

“What a week. We became the NXT Tag Team Champions, we became House Of Glory Tag Team Champions, and then we went on to retire Team 3D, the Dudley Boyz, our biggest nemesis over the last quarter of a century. If you don’t think we’re the best in the game right now, I don’t know what you’re thinking. I have four words for everyone, the GOATs are here.”

The Rock Confirms Having ‘Influence’ On Booking Of John Cena’s Final WWE Match

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Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has provided some insight into the decision-making process for John Cena’s final match, stating that the ultimate choice of opponent rests in the hands of Cena himself. The Rock, who sits on the Board of Directors for WWE’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings, acknowledged that he has some influence on the booking but made it clear that after a 20-plus year career, Cena has earned the right to decide who he will face in his retirement match. The historic final bout is scheduled for a special Saturday Night’s Main Event on December 13 in Washington D.C.

Appearing on the “New Heights” podcast with Jason and Travis Kelce, The Rock was asked who Cena’s final opponent could be.

“I have a tiny bit of influence in the booking of it. But really it’s just, it’s whoever John wants. Really, that’s what it comes down to. Whoever he wants. It’s not me or Nick Khan or Triple H. It’s just, it’s whoever John wants. That guy has earned it. And you know what? The best part about John is he comes as advertised. So who you think he is, that’s who he is. And he’s a good dude. And I love that guy. No, he’s a good dude, man. And kind. He’s really cool.”

While an opponent has not yet been officially announced by WWE, it is widely expected that Cena will face “The Ring General,” GUNTHER. A recent report from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter stated that GUNTHER is the currently planned opponent, and that an on-screen tournament may be held to determine the challenger, with GUNTHER slated to win.

McKenzie Mitchell’s “Threads of Triumph” to Chronicle Professional Wrestling’s Most Iconic Looks

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Former WWE and TNA broadcaster McKenzie Mitchell is set to release “Threads of Triumph: Professional Wrestling’s Most Iconic Looks,” a comprehensive visual history examining how gear and attire have shaped the industry’s most memorable characters. The hardcover book, featuring a foreword by Mercedes Moné, will be published by Chronicle Books on April 7, 2026. You can pre-order now at Amazon.

More Than Just Costumes

“Threads of Triumph” positions wrestling attire as far more than flashy ring wear—it’s an essential storytelling tool that connects performers to their characters, heritage, and emotional impact. The book spans over eight decades of professional wrestling history, from the 1940s to present day, featuring more than fifty global icons including “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Rey Mysterio, Becky Lynch, and Bianca Belair.

Mitchell’s unique perspective comes from her years as an insider in the wrestling industry, combined with her work as owner of Headline by MM, where she has created custom jewelry pieces for major WWE stars like Seth Rollins, Roxanne Perez, and Trick Williams for marquee events including WrestleMania and SummerSlam.

The Power of Presentation

Wrestling has always been a visual medium where character presentation can make or break a performer’s connection with the audience. From Ric Flair’s sequined robes symbolizing his “Nature Boy” opulence to Rey Mysterio’s lucha libre masks honoring Mexican wrestling tradition, gear serves as a wrestler’s calling card—instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant.

The book explores how pioneers like “Macho Man” Randy Savage and Shawn Michaels established blueprints with their distinctive styles that continue to influence modern performers. Savage’s vibrant, fringed jackets and colorful tights became synonymous with his larger-than-life personality, while Michaels’ evolution from rockers leather to elaborate ring gear reflected his journey to becoming “The Showstopper.”

Breaking Barriers Through Fashion

“Threads of Triumph” dedicates attention to wrestlers who used their presentation to challenge industry norms. The book highlights how Luna Vachon and Chyna leveraged their gear to break stereotypes and redefine what it meant to be a woman in a male-dominated business. Their bold, unconventional looks weren’t just aesthetic choices—they were statements of defiance and identity.

Character Through Costume

Some of wrestling’s most compelling characters are inextricably linked to their visual presentation. The book examines how The Undertaker’s gothic funeral attire and “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt’s nightmarish masks became essential extensions of their personas. These aren’t just outfits—they’re psychological tools that evoke genuine emotion and enhance the suspension of disbelief that makes professional wrestling captivating.

A Visual Celebration

Featuring stunning full-color photography from notable professional sports photographers and exclusive commentary from some of wrestling’s biggest stars, “Threads of Triumph” promises to be a one-of-a-kind deep dive into an often-overlooked aspect of wrestling history.

The book marks the first comprehensive visual collection focused specifically on professional wrestling gear, making it a unique addition to any wrestling fan’s library. Mitchell’s previous work on the “Threads of Triumph” YouTube series and podcast, which explored the wardrobes of wrestling and music stars, laid the groundwork for this expanded project.

“Threads of Triumph: Professional Wrestling’s Most Iconic Looks” is currently available for pre-order and will be released on April 7, 2026, from Chronicle Books.

CM Punk Earns World Heavyweight Title Opportunity on Raw

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CM Punk has secured his place back on top, as the legendary Superstar is once again in line for a shot at the WWE World Heavyweight championship.

Punk earned another dance with his longtime rival Seth Rollins following a decisive victory on Monday Night Raw. Competing in a Triple Threat Match against LA Knight and Jey Uso, Punk emerged victorious by delivering his signature Go To Sleep (GTS) finisher to Uso.

The bout took place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, the final stop on WWE’s Crown Jewel: Perth tour.

Post-Match Landscape Shakeup

The prospect of another Punk vs. Rollins encounter was shaken up following Punk’s victory when The Vision faction seemingly imploded. Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed turned on their leader in shocking fashion, with Paul Heyman slithering in to raise Breakker and Reed’s hand in symbolic victory.

This betrayal leaves Rollins vulnerable, despite the momentum he’d had coming out of Crown Jewel with a hard-fought victory over Cody Rhodes.

Seth Rollins Ousted from The Vision: Breakker and Reed Enter Uncharted Territory Under Heyman

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Seth Rollins’ tenure as leader of The Vision came to an abrupt end on this week’s WWE Raw when the faction turned on him following a controversial promo.

The dramatic turn occurred during the opening segment, where Rollins gathered The Vision members Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed to celebrate his Crown Jewel victory. However, Rollins’ speech quickly soured the moment. He declared he didn’t “need” anyone, emphasized his solo success, and made it clear he chose his allies rather than depending on them.

The assertion proved to be a critical mistake. Bron Breakker visibly bristled at Rollins’ words, and the tension erupted into action. The Vision turned on their former leader, forcibly removing him from the group he had built.

The ousting marks a significant shift for everyone involved. For Rollins, the ejection signals a new chapter as a solo competitor, though given his track record, a rivalry with his former allies seems inevitable.

But this is equally a pivotal moment for Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed. Both Breakker and Reed have developed considerably under Rollins’ leadership, maturing into formidable forces in their own right. Now that they’ve thrown their veteran leader overboard, the real test begins. Without Rollins’ experienced presence to filter Paul Heyman’s notorious influence, the question looms: what are Breakker and Reed truly capable of?

The dynamic within The Vision has fundamentally changed. Heyman’s ability to manipulate and strategize is well-documented, and with Rollins no longer there to provide balance, Breakker and Reed may find themselves on a very different—and potentially darker—path forward.

WWE Raw Next Week: Becky Lynch, Dominik Mysterio, and Judgment Day Title Defenses

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WWE has officially announced three title matches for the October 20, 2025 episode of Monday Night Raw, which will take place at Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center.

Following her surprising count-out victory over Becky Lynch on this week’s show, Sacramento native Maxxine Dupri will challenge The Man for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship in her hometown.

Dominik Mysterio will defend the Men’s Intercontinental Championship against Rusev after the Bulgarian Brute interfered in Mysterio’s title defense against Penta during this week’s Raw. The interference prompted a backstage confrontation where Mysterio complained about being the only champion actively defending his title, which led AJ Styles to suggest that the other Judgment Day members should also put their championships on the line.

Raw General Manager Adam Pearce responded by making a World Tag Team Championship match official, pitting defending champions Finn Balor and JD McDonagh of The Judgment Day against the team of AJ Styles and Dragon Lee.

Sacramento Raw Card (October 20, 2025):

  • Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Maxxine Dupri
  • Men’s Intercontinental Championship: Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Rusev
  • World Tag Team Championship: Finn Balor & JD McDonagh (c) vs. AJ Styles & Dragon Lee

Konosuke Takeshita Captures IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at King of Pro Wrestling

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AEW star Konosuke Takeshita claimed his first IWGP World Heavyweight Championship on Sunday, defeating Zack Sabre Jr. at New Japan Pro Wrestling’s King of Pro Wrestling 2025 event.

Takeshita secured the victory with his Powerdrive Knee finisher, ending Sabre Jr.’s 106-day reign after two successful title defenses. The win came after Takeshita earned his championship opportunity by winning this year’s G1 Climax tournament.

In a post-match address, Takeshita responded to critics by declaring himself “The Alpha” and issued an open challenge to both established stars and rising talent. Veteran Hirooki Goto immediately confronted the new champion, challenging him for the title.

Takeshita’s decision to cash in his G1 Climax prize at King of Pro Wrestling, rather than waiting until the traditional Wrestle Kingdom event, represents a departure from NJPW convention and signals a potential shift in the promotion’s main event landscape.

The championship win marks a significant milestone in Takeshita’s career, placing him among an elite group of titleholders including Kazuchika Okada, Will Ospreay, Tetsuya Naito, and Jon Moxley.

Tony Khan Visits Kota Ibushi In The Hospital After Femur Surgery

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AEW President Tony Khan made sure to visit Kota Ibushi in the hospital as the Japanese star continues to recover from broken femur surgery. On Instagram, Ibushi was grateful that Khan took the time to see him in the hospital, though was somewhat embarrassed that Khan had to see him this way.

“The boss came around alone and everyone was surprised, and I was surprised in the first place. You don’t usually show up like this, why do you do all that?”

Ibushi was stretchered out of the latest taping of AEW Collision, and later confirmed on social media that he was dealing with a broken femur. After the taping, Khan appeared in front of the crowd and expressed his appreciation for Ibushi.

In a previous post, Ibushi shared that he could be out of action for over a year and reflected on dealing with injuries and setbacks for years. Kota went as far as to say that another setback like this will leave him living like a normal person, seemingly indicating a potential retirement from wrestling.

Ibushi signed a new contract with AEW in August 2025 after a near-two-year hiatus from the company. While Ibushi won’t be wrestling anytime soon, he clearly has the support of all of AEW on his side.


 

WWE Alum Claims Company Is Withholding Royalty Checks

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WWE’s royalty checks have been under the spotlight as of late, with Kevin Nash claiming that his earning have been halved thanks to TKO. While Nash isn’t pleased with earning less from his royalties, he is at least getting something, which is more than what Stevie Richards can say.

Appearing on The Stevie Richards Show YouTube channel, the Right to Censor alum discussed Nash’s situation and revealed that despite years of work with WWE, he hasn’t received a royalty check in nearly a decade.

“I have to call WWE. I haven’t gotten a royalty check in probably 10 years, and I’m definitely not getting one now.

Richards said that Nash has begun a game of ‘chicken’ as time will tell whether WWE will respond to his complaint. Richards is hopeful that Nash’s comments will lead to other coming forward.

“Once Kevin stands his ground, and I assume Sean Waltman will too, that could open the door for other talent—especially within the nWo group.”

Richards acknowledged that he wouldn’t expect payments comparable to Nash or other nWo members, but still wants clarity about what he’s owed. He confirmed plans to reach out to WWE’s talent relations department to investigate the issue.

I’m telling you, I haven’t seen a single check in 10 yearsI’m actually going to email talent relations after this and ask if I’m owed any royalty checks, because I haven’t gotten one in 8 to 10 years.

Richards was part of WWE from 1999 to 2008, during which he became a 21-time Hardcore Champion and led the Right to Censor faction. With a lasting legacy in WWE history, time will tell if Richards will finally receive what he’s due.

Jin Tala Reacts After WWE Exit: I’ve Always Been A Fighter

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WWE Evolve’s Jin Tala, who was part of WWE LFG as Leigh Laurel, was among those to leave WWE as part of recent cuts. Now, the former Superstar has made clear that this setback won’t be the end of her wrestling career.

On X, Laurel, who signed with Evolve after her elimination from WWE LFG, shared a message regarding her WWE departure. Laurel shared how WWE was more than a job, but her sole focus.

“I wasn’t just fascinated by the physical aspects of pro wrestling, what hooked me was the psychology… the emotions that can be expressed by wrestlers & felt by the audience.”

Laurel added that she put 110% of herself into her work, refuting any claims that her exit was due to a lack of commitment. Laurel never shied away from asking the coaches for advice, and reflected on why exactly she was let go.

“Maybe it came down to timing, did I break down those walls quick enough? Maybe I was just an unrecognizable name on a list, or maybe they just don’t see what I see in myself.”

While Laurel is out of WWE’s system, there is a wider wrestling world out there for her. Rather than be defeated, she plans on using this setback to push herself further.

“I’m not giving up. Jin Tala may be no more. But Leigh Laurel has always been a fighter.”

Jin Tala’s final match came during an October 4, WWE NXT live event, where she lost to WWE LFG season 1 winner Tyra Mae Steele. It remains to be seen what’s next for Leigh Laurel outside of WWE.

Team 3D Hint At Retirement After Bound for Glory 2025 Loss

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Team 3D (Bully Ray and Devon) battled Matt and Jeff Hardy one final time at TNA Bound for Glory 2025, in an epic war between two iconic tag teams. The match saw both the WWE NXT and TNA World Tag Team Championships on the line, with the Hardys walking in as double champions.

Brother Runt—known to WWE fans as Spike Dudley—accompanied his brothers to the ring for the tables match. The Hardys sealed the win by sending Bubba through a table to retain their gold.

After the match, Bully Ray and Devon removed their wrestling boots and handed them to the Hardy Boys. In wrestling, leaving one’s wrestling boots behind signifies a wrestler’s retirement. The four hugged in the ring after the bout, much to the appreciation of the crowd.

Devon had previously made clear that Bound for Glory would be his final match, and it looks like Bully Ray will be joining him. Facing one of wrestling’s most iconic teams at TNA’s biggest show of the year, there are certainly worse ways for Team 3D to bring an end to their in-ring career.

Mike Santana Wins TNA World Title At Bound For Glory 2025

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The TNA World Championship is back in the hands of TNA Wrestling following Mike Santan’s victory at Bound for Glory. Santana ended the reign of WWE NXT’s Trick Williams, who had declared himself “the greatest TNA Champion of all time,” during a pre-match promo.

Santana was busted open during the match, but refused to be beaten. Santana got the win with a clothesline and a ‘Spin the Block’ to capture his first TNA World Championship.

You can check outsome highlights from the match below.

After the match, Nic Nemeth attempted to cash in his ‘Call Your Shot Gauntlet’ win and bring an early end to Santana’s title win. However, Elijah made sure Nemeth wouldn’t have the chance to cash-in his guaranteed title opportunity.

Now, one of TNA’s two major titles is back in the hands of TNA Wrestling, as Kelani Jordan retained the TNA Knockouts Title at Bound for Glory. With TNA also in possession of the WWE NXT Tag Team Titles, it remains to be seen what’s next for both sides.

TNA President Hints That The Hardy Boyz Have Re-Signed

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TNA President Carlos Silva has fueled speculation that the legendary Hardy Boyz have re-signed with the company, posting a positive and forward-looking message on social media just one day before their historic match at the Bound For Glory pay-per-view. The message comes in the wake of a recent report from Fightful which stated that the one-year contracts Matt and Jeff Hardy signed in November 2024 were set to expire next month.

On Saturday, Silva took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to thank the brothers for their contributions to TNA. This may imply they’ve re-signed.

He wrote, “Thank you to Matt and Jeff for being part of the @ThisIsTNA team. Such a pleasure to work with you and look forward to many years of positive vibes together. @MATTHARDYBRAND @JEFFHARDYBRAND”

The post was made on the same day that The Hardys and their Bound For Glory opponents, Team 3D (The Dudley Boyz), appeared together at a special fan Q&A event in Saugus, Massachusetts. The uncertainty surrounding their contract status has added another layer of intrigue to their match at Bound For Glory tonight. They will face off in a Tables Match with both the TNA and NXT Tag Team Championships on the line.

The Rock’s “The Smashing Machine” Continue To Struggle At The Box Office

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The box office struggles have continued for Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s new A24 drama, “The Smashing Machine.” According to a new report from Variety, the film saw a massive 70% drop in its second weekend, earning just $1.7 million from over 3,300 theaters. The steep decline places the film in eighth place overall for the weekend and brings its total domestic gross to only $10.1 million.

With a reported production budget of $50 million before marketing costs, the film is on track to be a financial disappointment for the studio, despite receiving strong critical reviews for Johnson’s dramatic performance. The film’s poor showing was part of a larger trend of underperformance at the weekend box office, as several other new releases also failed to meet expectations. The weekend’s top film, Disney’s new “Tron: Ares,” brought in $33.5 million in its debut.

“The Smashing Machine” is a passion project for Johnson, who portrays former UFC and MMA champion Mark Kerr in the biopic, which is based on a documentary of the same name. The film also stars Emily Blunt and former MMA champion Ryan Bader.

A recent report from Deadline revealed that Johnson took a significant pay cut for the role, receiving a $4 million fee, far below his usual $20 million-plus salary, and even gave a portion of his pay to his co-star and to Mark Kerr himself.

Kiera Hogan Confirms AEW Exit, Taking A Break From Wrestling

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In September 2025, Kiera Hogan’s profile was removed from the AEW roster page of its website, leaving many to suspect that she had parted ways with the company. During a recent virtual signing for RDP Promotions, Hogan was asked about her current AEW status, and confirmed that she has left.

“No. I worked at AEW until this year, and now I am a free agent.”

Hogan spoke highly of her time with AEW and was grateful for her experience as an All-Elite talent. While she didn’t rule out a return, pro-wrestling isn’t her focus at this point of her life.

“I know doors are never closed. I’m actually on a little bit of a break right now, because I have something coming up.”

2025 has seen Hogan explore opportunities outside of the ring. Earlier this year, she appeared on the reality television show Joseline’s Cabaret California on Zeus Network as a cast member. While wrestling isn’t her focus right now, that doesn’t mean fans will never see her in the ring again.

Outside of AEW, Hogan made a name for herself in TNA Wrestling, where she won the Knockouts Tag Titles twice with Tasha Steelz. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Kiera Hogan’s next chapter, both in and out of the ring.

Kota Ibushi Out With Broken Femur, Could Miss Over A Year

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Kota Ibushi was stretchered out during the latest taping of AEW Collision after slipping and falling to the outside of the ring. After the taping, Tony Khan would speak to the live crowd and express his appreciation for the Japanese wrestler.

On Instagram, Ibushi shared an update from his hospital bed. The 43-year-old shared that he is dealing with a broken femur, the latest on a list of serious injuries in his wrestling career.

“I’ve only had serious injuries. This is a broken femur, and the broken bone is trying to break through the flesh.”

Ibushi has undergone surgery, and is hopeful to make a return to the ring. But after “five years of breaking, healing, and accidents,” Ibushi realizes that he can’t afford many more setbacks in wrestling.

“I get another serious injury, I plan to live my life as a normal person from now on.”

Ibushi has beet met with a ton of support from fans and his fellow wrestlers. In hospital, Ibushi had received a bouqet of flowers and a card from Tony Khan, gestures that have touched Kota.

“I can’t believe the president [Khan] himself gave me a bouquet and a letter. After something like this, I can’t quit again! I cried.”

Ibushi is feeling worse-for-wear after his broken femur. According to the AEW standout, he can only move his toes and is in a tremendous amount of pain.

“Right now, I’m in so much pain that I can only move my toes. I was surprised that I still had a sense of pain.”

Ibushi isn’t sure how long he’ll be out for, but sugested it could be as long as a year-and-a-half. Our best wishes remain with him at this difficult time.

Crown Jewel: Perth Earns “B” Grade From ESPN, Better Than WrestlePalooza

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WWE Crown Jewel: Perth was a noticeable improvement on the previous month’s Wrestlepalooza, according to those at ESPN. Reviewing the Australian event, ESPN’s Andreas Hale gave Crown Jewel: Perth a B grade with the following explanation.

“A show that stumbled out of the gates with a relatively tame street fight and a far too brief affair between women’s champions was rescued by an absolutely stellar match between Cena and Styles that put an excellent bookend to their rivalry. Rollins finally getting his comeuppance against Rhodes — by any means necessary — and the women’s tag match were both strong and anchored a memorable bounce back for WWE after a middling Wrestlepalooza.”

Hale added that John Cena Vs. AJ Styles was the clear standout match of the night. He described it as “a love letter to wrestling” and awarded the match an A grade. The bout saw both men pay tribute to past rivals in what was Cena’s final match competing outside of the United States.

Hale had previously given Wrestlepalooza a C rating, criticizing the show’s lack of surprises and failure to deliver on its promised hype. Many saw this as a bad omen for WWE’s partnership with ESPN and believed that a more favorable review would have been given.

With Crown Jewel: Perth in the history books, WWE’s attention will now turn to Survivor Series: WarGames in November. It remains to be seen what ESPN makes of the show, the first of the ‘Big 5’ that will be part of the ESPN deal.

Ronda Rousey Shuts Down UFC Comeback Rumors After Second Child

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Ronda Rousey hasn’t competed in UFC in years, but rumors continue to persist that she will make a return to the Octagon. When TMZ Sports recently spoke to Rousey, they asked if a comeback was in the works.

“I just had a baby, you know what I mean? I’m just trying to get my bodily identity back and nothing more. I’m just enjoying being in the gym again and feeling a lot better and healthier.”

Rousey gave birth to her and Travis Browne’s second daughter in July 2024, naming her Liko’ula P?’?omahinakaipiha Browne. For Rousey, her current focus is on reconnecting with herself post-pregnancy.

“Have you ever had kids? Well, it just feels really good to get that freedom of movement back, you know, and just train for the love of it again. I feel like that’s something that got lost before. So yeah, I’m just really enjoying myself.

Rousey parted ways with the UFC in 2016 and joined WWE two years later. The former Women’s Champion left WWE in 2023 and has been openly critical of the company and Vince McMahon ever since. Rousey has ruled out a WWE return and has said she believes WWE will erase her impact in pro wrestling.

For the Olympic Bronze medalist, life now revolves around family and self-discovery. While fans may hope to see her return to either the cage or the squared circle, the “Baddest Woman on the Planet” is focused on being a mom.

Stay tuned to the latest from the world of UFC and mixed martial arts at MMANews.com

WWE Re-Signs Evolve Men’s Champion After Recent Exits

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WWE may have made several cuts to its roster, but WWE Evolve Champion Jackson Drake is reportedly safe for the time being. Bodyslam.net reports that Drake’s WWE ID contract has been renewed by WWE, keeping him with the promotion.

Drake became the first-ever WWE Evolve Champion in June of this year by winning a fatal four-way elimination match to make history. Now, Drake joins the likes of Buddy Rogers, Pat Patterson, Harley Race, Finn Balor, and others as an inaugural champion.

While Drake will be staying with WWE, others have not been so fortunate. Zayda Steel, Kylie Rae, Zara Zakher, and others have all parted with WWE in recent days. These talents either opted not to re-sign with WWE ID, their deals were not renewed, or were simply released from WWE.

Before WWE, Drake appeared in several promotions including Beyond Wrestling and CZW. From 2022 to 2024, Drake competed three times on AEW programming but lost all three of his matches.

Time will tell how far WWE’s first Evolve champion goes, and whether he makes it to the main roster. For now, Drake is still part of WWE as the company sees something in the young Superstar.

Ridge Holland Gives Update On Lisfranc Injury, Staying Positive

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Ridge Holland suffered a Lisfranc injury during a taping for TNA Wrestling that brought his match with Mosse to an early end. On October 3, the Welsh Superstar went under the knife for surgery and has now shared an update on his condition.

Taking to X, Holland shared the following:

“I just wanted to give a bit of an update on the recovery. I’m just here with the family at the resort, take them away for the weekend. Get them out of the house. I’m sat here in the hotel room with my laptop and my foot up while they’re at the pool… Hopefully, I can get back into the gym Monday. I get a cast put on Thursday. I think I’ll be in that probably three weeks and then we can start weight bearing.”

Holland added that staying positive was his focus, and he is excited to get back in the gym. The former NXT Tag Team Champion added that he’s been “going absolutely crazy” during his recovery as he’s not been able to work out in the gym.

A Lisfranc injury occurs when one of more of the metatarsal bones in the foot are displaced from the tarsus. In late 2024, AJ Styles suffered a Lisfranc injury during his first match back after months away. The setback forced Styles to miss close to four months of action before returning as part of the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match.

Holland has been part of WWE NXT for some time now, and was seemingly poised to play a role in the NXT-TNA InVasion storyline. Instead, he will have to watch the show from the sidelines as he recovers from this setback.

Jeff Hardy Says Planned Autobiography Will Deal With Years Of Alocholism

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Matt and Jeff Hardy’s lives and careers will be the subject of a pair of wrestling autobiographies, the legendary brothers have shared. Speaking to The Wrestling History Channel, Matt shared that both men could write individual autobiographies given all that has happened in and out of the ring.

Jeff then shared that he has already began working on his book. Jeff won’t hold back, as he shared that his book will deal with his past alcoholism head on.

“I got four years’ worth of journaling throughout my alcoholism. So, I’ve already started trying to go back to each page and write one, but it’s a huge project. I might end up needing a little help.”

These books won’t be the first time that fans will get to read about the lives of Matt and Jeff Hardy. In 2003, the pair penned ‘Exist 2 Inspire,’ while both were with WWE. Given the date, the book would miss several key moments of the pair’s lives, including their runs in TNA Wrestling, WWE return in 2017, and issues with the law.

Currently, Matt and Jeff are competing in TNA, where they hold the TNA World Tag Team Titles. The duo also hold the 4th Rope Wrestling Tag Team Titles, the NXT Tag Team Titles, and most recently won tag gold for House of Glory Wrestling. The pair will battle Team 3D (Bully Ray & Devon) at TNA Bound for Glory 2025.

With a career most tag teams could only dream of, the lives of Matt and Jeff will make for a thrilling read. Time will tell if these ideas ever make it to bookshelves, but Jeff is already working on making his book a reality.

Stevie Turner Is Excited To Wrestle Again After WWE Departure

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Stevie Turner is excited to get back in the ring now that her tenure with WWE has come to an end. On X, Turner shared her excitement.

Turner had just 52 matches during her tenure with WWE, a run that began upon her signing in March 2021. Her post hints at frustrations over feeling underutilized as an in-ring talent within the promotion. Turner’s most recent match was in February 2025, where she was on the losing end of a tag-team match at an NXT live event.

In March 2025, Turner was announced as the General Manager of Evolve, though the English performer later dubbed herself as Evolve’s Prime Minister. This role would have seemingly ended Turner’s in-ring career with WWE, in favor of being an on-screen authority figure.

Before WWE, Turner wrestled on the UK independent scene as Bobbi Tyler and became a six-time champion across various promotions. She also wrestled for STARDOM, where she was part of the Tokyo Cyber Squad.

Now, Turner/Tyler is ready to re-establish herself as an in-ring threat. Her post shares how being in WWE isn’t always fulfilling for those who want to wrestle.

Ash By Elegance Says She’s Retired After Vacating TNA Knockouts Title

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Ash By Elegance’s time in the ring has seemingly come to an end, the former TNA Knockouts Champion has revealed. During a virtual signing for RDP Promotions, Ash showed off one of the shirts she was selling and revealed the significance of the item.

“$30 for this top. It is worn with me and Paige VanZant (in a photoshoot), but also, this is the shirt I retired in. It’s $30. My retirement t-shirt.”

Later on, Ash shared that TNA has been supporting her and has allowed her the opportunity to do things backstage. Ash told fans to “never say never” to an in-ring return, but for now, there’s no plans for her to get back in the squared circle.

Ash, also known to WWE fans as Dana Brooke, vacated the TNA Knockouts Title at Victory Road, mere weeks after winning the gold. At the time, Ash didn’t give a specific reason for her decision, instead ating that “I am no longer able to compete.”

Ash won the title from NXT’s Jacy Jayne at WWE Heatwave in a triple threat match which included Masha Slamovich. TNA’s Tommy Dreamer has confirmed that Ash’s situation is not a ‘work’ but instead a very unfortunate moment for all informed.

To this day, it remains unclear as to what exactly derailed Ash By Elegance’s in-ring career. For now, Elegance’s time in the ring is in the past.

Fans Rally For Edge After John Cena’s Win At Crown Jewel: Perth

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The WWE Universe made their voices heard loud and clear following John Cena’s victory at WWE Crown Jewel: Perth. During the post-show event, the fans chanted “We want Edge,” making clear who they want Cena to face next. Not satisfied with just the chant, the crowd in Australia sang Metalingus, the theme song used by the Rated-R Superstar.

These chants were mostly ignored by Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, who spoke about the great experience WWE has had in Australia for Crown Jewel. While Levesque eventually highlighted the fans singing, saying the crowd had been “doing this all night long,” he did not make reference to the message the fans were sending.

Edge, aka AEW’s Adam Copeland, is considered by many to be Cena’s greatest rival. In 2006, Edge ended Cena’s first reign as WWE Champion and John would repay the favor mere weeks later.

Copeland recently shared that he’d be leaving AEW programming, and was unclear when, if ever, he would return. While some quickly saw this as a sign of a WWE return for a Cena match, it has since been reported that this is not the case.

John Cena has just four appearances left in his WWE farewell tour, a run that has seen him face rivals like Randy Orton, Brock Lesnar, and AJ Styles. And while a Cena-Edge match may never happen again, fans in Australia remain hopeful.

Backstage News On Latest WWE Talent Releases

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A new report from Fightful Select has provided an update on the recent WWE developmental talent releases that took place on Friday, October 10. According to the report, the round of cuts has now “effectively concluded,” with the total number of departures being “around a dozen.”

The list of released talent includes a mix of outright releases, contracts that were not renewed, and some talent who reportedly passed on new deals offered to them. The most prominent name among those released was the former NXT North American Champion, Wes Lee. According to WWE sources cited in the report, the reason given for this round of releases was a “natural progression of cycling out developmental talent.”

The report also made it clear that despite these departures, WWE is still actively recruiting new talent to bring into its developmental system at the Performance Center, indicating a continuous process of refreshing the roster. The release of Wes Lee is the most surprising of the group. He was a highly popular and decorated champion in NXT, known for his exciting in-ring style.

In addition to his lengthy reign as the NXT North American Champion, he was also a multi-time NXT Tag Team Champion as part of the team MSK. His departure marks a significant change for the NXT landscape. You can see the full list here.